Robbinsville honors longtime owner of Ernie's Tavern

Mrs. Catherine Palsho (center) poses with her family and friends who organized a surprise birthday party for her 90th birthday. Robbinsville Mayor Dave Fried presented Mrs. Catherine with a proclamation for the 67 years of running her business Ernie's Tavern in Robbinsville.Trentonian Photo/ CARLOS AVILA.

ROBBINSVILLE — All across Mercer County there are historical restaurants and taverns where people meet to have a drink and make memories. One of those longtime family-owned places is Ernie’s Tavern in Robbinsville, established in 1947 by Ernie and Catherine Palsho.

The place is still bustling with patrons 67 years later.

While Ernie passed away in 1999, Catherine is standing tall managing the business of her late husband.

Ernie’s Tavern has become the go-to place for Irish-Americans and those who just think they are Irish. Everyone is Irish on St. Patricks Day and that is certainly the case for anyone who visits Ernie’s Tavern.

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Ernie’s Tavern does not just have a good reputation in town for its refreshing beer and friendly environment, but also as a result of Mrs. Palsho’s big Irish heart.

In the 67 years running the tavern, Mrs. Palsho has become a pillar in the Robbinsville community. She is known as a living encyclopedia of information about all things relating to Robbinsville.

“Ernie’s Tavern, and Catherine herself, are staples in our town. Although she has contributed a great deal to the social scene by bringing people together at Ernie’s, her friendship — along with her work with the PTA and within the Robbinsville community — also are a big part of her legacy,” said Robbinsville Mayor Dave Fried.

On Friday, Fried presented Mrs. Palsho with a proclamation for the 67 years of running her business. Her family, friends and the community also organized a surprise birthday party for her 90th birthday.

“The Township congratulates Catherine on this milestone in her life, and we hope to have her here for many, many more years to come,” said Fried.

“We are blessed to have Catherine at the helm. She works every day but Mondays and she gets no sick days. Catherine is our Rose Kennedy of Robbinsville. She is every one’s Mom or Grandma or one of the best friends you could every ask for. Catherine has taken care of all whom have come to her. I even watched her pay for a customer’s funeral and she brings sandwiches to any family in need. Catherine is an inspiration to me and to anyone who meets her. She is the monarch of our town,” said Annemarie O’Brien-Terelmes, Manager at the Ernie’s Tavern.

Mrs. Palsho and her late husband Ernie raised five children in Robbinsville and they all continue to contribute the community.